MRM is a science-based, interdisciplinary, professionally-oriented program that provides students with the multidisciplinary training necessary to bridge the gap between science, practice, and policy/decision making. Our goal is to help you to confidently and effectively succeed in professional resource management positions.

Candidates for the master’s degree are required to complete a total of 52 credits (40+ credits of graduate level coursework and 9-12 thesis credits), and write and defend a scholarly document based on original, applied research.

All work is conducted under the guidance of a major professor and committee members. A graduate council representative is required for the final oral exam.

All work must be completed within seven years including transfer credits, coursework, research, and oral exam. Thirty (30) credits on the master’s program must be taken on campus (in residence) after admission as a regular graduate student, and all additional Graduate School guidelines must be followed.

Required Coursework

One of the hallmarks of the Program is the flexibility in designing a plan of study that meets a student’s interests, needs, and research direction. MRM students are required to take the following core courses:

  • OEAS 500 Cascadia Field Trip (3 credits)
  • MRM 507 MRM Orientation (1 credit)
  • OEAS 530 The Fluid Earth (4 credits)
  • OEAS 540 The Biogeochemical Earth (4 credits)
  • OEAS 520 The Solid Earth (4 credits)
  • PPOL 546 Policy and Coastal Law (4 credits)
  • MRM 530 Principles and Practice of Marine Resource Management (3 credits)
  • OC 507 COAS Series (1 credit)

Given the interdisciplinary nature of the Program, students can complete the remaining elective course work from departments inside or outside of the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences. The remainder of the courses will be determined in consultation with the MRM Program Director and/or the student's major professor. Examples of elective coursework.


Go to the Marine Resource Management Program page